Tamils stranded in Singapore seek State govt. help to get back home

Tamils stranded in Singapore seek State govt. help to get back home

02/06/2020, SANJAY VIJAYAKUMAR,CHENNAI

Many Tamils stranded in Singapore have requested the Tamil Nadu government to arrange flights to facilitate their return to the State.

“Many people have lost jobs and are struggling here. They are unable to go back to Tamil Nadu as there are no flights. We have a WhatsApp group for people from Tamil Nadu stuck in Singapore. There are senior citizens who need medical treatment and pregnant ladies who are desperate to return. With job losses, it is difficult to survive, given the cost of living factor,” said Ramasubramanian of Karaikudi, who is among those stranded in Singapore.

Not a single flight has been operated from Singapore to destinations in Tamil Nadu under the Vande Bharat Mission, he said.

Anitha, who works in Singapore, said her husband came there on a ‘dependent pass’ in February, and has been stranded there since.

“He is a diabetic and needs treatment from his doctor in Chennai. Flights are being operated from Singapore to northern States in India, but not to Tamil Nadu,” she said. Ms. Anitha said that even if flights were operated to destinations like Tiruchi, it would be helpful.

Mr. Ramalingam, who hails from Kumbakonam and is working in Singapore, said he had to come back for medical treatment for suspected tuberculosis.

Mr. Ramasubramanian said tourists and students were also stranded in Singapore.